LGBTs Want Cory Booker to Challenge Christie for N.J. Governor

BY Neal Broverman

November 26 2012 4:25 PM ET

Newark mayor Cory Booker

Buoyed by New Jersey's LGBT population, Newark mayor Cory Booker is considering running against Chris Christie for Garden State governor.

Booker, a longtime LGBT rights supporter, is being gently urged by liberal leaders to take on Christie next year, when the Republican governor will likely run for reelection. The head of Garden State Equality is saying publicly that he will seek donors from "New Jersey to West Hollywood to raise millions of dollars" for Booker's run. The hope is that not only will Booker have LGBT support at the polls, but also their help in fundraising efforts.

While Christie is viewed by many as a nonpartisan, liberal-leaning Republican, he vetoed a marriage equality bill in the state this year (many believe he has his eye on a presidential run in 2016). Booker, a Democrat, is a strong marriage equality advocate who raised the gay Pride flag at Newark City Hall. Booker's formal decision on his run is expected to be announced by the end of the year.